In recent days, FC Barcelona has made key decisions regarding the planning of its defense for next season. According to Sport and Mundo Deportivo, Barça has almost settled the transfer of Jonathan Tah. The German center-back is currently of interest to Deco, the sporting director.
With this move, Eric García's situation becomes even more complicated. The arrival of Tah seems to make it clear that the Spaniard's future at the club could be increasingly uncertain.
Key Transfer for the Defense
Deco has worked intensively on the incorporation of Jonathan Tah, whose contract with Bayer Leverkusen ends in June 2024. The German center-back, 29 years old and with 33 international matches, has a market value close to 30 million euros.
Despite his quality and experience, his transfer also responds to an urgent need for Barça. The club needs to improve its defense amid the uncertainty surrounding several of its current center-backs.
The Situation of Barça's Center-backs
Currently, Barça has several defenders whose continuity is hanging in the air. Pau Cubarsí, with a contract until 2027, is the only center-back assured for the near future.
On the other hand, key players like Araújo, Christensen, and Eric García have contracts ending in 2026. This leaves room for negotiations but also generates doubts. Additionally, Íñigo Martínez still doesn't have his automatic renewal secured, although he will if he plays 60% of the matches, something that seems likely.
The incorporation of Tah could completely change the defensive landscape. His arrival not only strengthens the team but also calls into question the future of several players, including Eric García and Ronald Araújo.
Araújo and the Pressure for Renewal
Tah's transfer reinforces the idea that Barça is looking for an alternative to Araújo, who has had ups and downs this season. The Uruguayan suffered a crucial error in the tie against PSG and has dealt with physical problems that have hindered his performance. Added to this are rumors about his possible interest in other clubs.
Although Barça still wants to renew Araújo, the urgency to do so has decreased. With the good performance of Cubarsí and Íñigo and the arrival of Tah, the pressure to renew Araújo has been significantly reduced. Additionally, the club has made it clear that it won't accept a renewal without an adaptation to the current economic reality.
Eric García: Now or in Summer?
The arrival of Jonathan Tah and the possible departures of Araújo and other players put Eric García in an uncomfortable position. If the Spanish center-back doesn't make decisions in the short term, his future at the club could be highly at risk.
Barça's team needs players committed to their role and the financial situation of the club. If he doesn't renew, Eric García could seek a new opportunity in summer f2025, as the club plans to strengthen its defense.